Discharge Instructions for Paracentesis
Paracentesis is a procedure to remove excess fluid from your abdomen (belly). Buildup of fluid in the abdomen is called ascites. The procedure may have been done to take a sample of the fluid. Or, it may have been done to drain the excess fluid from your abdomen.
Ascites is buildup of excess fluid in the abdomen.
Home Care
If you have pain after the procedure, your doctor can prescribe or recommend pain medications. Take these exactly as directed. If you stopped taking other medications before the procedure, ask your doctor when you can start them again.
Take it easy for 24 hours after the procedure. Avoid physical activity until your doctor says it’s okay.
Do not drive for 24 hours.
You will have a small bandage over the puncture site. You may remove the bandage in 24 hours.
Check the puncture site for the signs of infection listed below.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment with your doctor as directed. During your follow-up visit, your doctor will check your healing. Let your doctor know how you are feeling. You can also discuss the cause of your ascites and whether any further treatment is needed.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor if you notice any of the following after the procedure:
A fever of 100.4°F or higher
Trouble breathing
Pain that does not go away even after taking pain medication
Abdominal pain not caused by having the skin punctured
Bleeding from the puncture site
More than a small amount of fluid leakage from the puncture site
Swelling of the abdomen
Signs of infection at the puncture site. These include increased pain, redness, or swelling, warmth, or foul-smelling drainage.
Blood in your urine
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting